Sherman's Security Blog
I am Sherman Hand. (also known as Policysup) I have created this blog and will use a part of my day to write about what is going on in the world. I hope to discuss things in a down to earth and practical way. I hope to hear back from you on your thoughts. I do not in any way intend to speak for my employer. The content of this blog will be either opinions that are strictly mine, general observations,re posts, or information that is already in the public domain.

Walmart has begun discussing a possible acquisition of health insurer Humana, The Wall Street Journal first reported Thursday citing people familiar with the matter. Reuters also reported the companies are discussing a partnership, but that a full acquisition is also possible.

Shares of Humana soared as much as 13 percent in after-hours trade on Thursday. Walmart shares edged slightly lower in extended trade.

The newspaper said that details of the potential deal were not immediately clear and that it’s possible one may not materialize.

Walmart said in a statement to CNBC that it doesn’t comment on rumors and speculation. Humana did not immediately respond to CNBC’s request for comment.

As of their Thursday close, Humana had a market value of about $37 billion, according to FactSet. Shares of the insurer have surged 30 percent in the past year, while Walmart shares have jumped more than 25 percent.

The news comes amid a rush of deal chatter as insurers are under pressure to lower medical care costs.